This is the most recent, official way of addressing a person or people on the front of envelopes.
To address a woman:
Assuming she still has her maiden name:
Ms. Jane Doe or Miss Jane Doe (refrain from using “Miss” if the girl is under 18)
If she’s married and keeping her husband’s name (according to preference):
Mrs. John Doe
Mrs. Jane Doe
Or Ms. Jane Doe
The same structure applies if she’s separated, but not divorced.
If she is divorced:
Mrs. Jane Doe
Ms. Jane Doe
Ms. Jane Smith (if she uses her maiden name)
If she is widowed:
Mrs. John Doe (it’s advised that you should ask before using this name)
Mrs. Jane Doe
Ms. Jane Doe
When addressing a couple:
If she’s married, but prefers Ms.:
Mr. John Doe and Ms. Jane Doe
Ms. Jane Doe and Mr. John Doe
If she’s married, but uses her maiden name:
Mr. John Doe and Ms. Jane Smith
Ms. Jane Smith and Mr. John Doe
If they’re living together, but aren’t married:
Mr. John Doe and Ms. Jane Smith
If she outranks her husband:
The Honorable Jane Doe and Mr. John Doe
If she outranks her husband in professional degree:
Dr. Jane Doe and Mr. John Doe
If both are doctors or have a PhD:
Drs. Jane and John Doe
Drs. John and Jane Doe
Dr. Jane Doe and Dr. John Doe
Dr. John Doe and Jane Doe
If both are doctors and she uses her maiden name:
Dr. Jane Smith and Dr. John Doe
Dr. John Doe and Dr. Jane Smith
Some extra tips for addressing and sending wedding invitations:
Be sure to stack your invites, details card, and reply card in size order.
The printed side on each card should be shown when your guest opens it.
As always, you may leave the addressing to us if you prefer that we carefully address envelopes. If you have any questions about addressing etiquette, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
